How to Change a Life

English Lesson 160

Important Events

Fredrick Douglass expressed that the most important event in his early life was the experience of learning to read. Douglass says in his autobiography that learning to read was a major turning point in his life. Douglass attributes very positively that this was the best event that ever happened to him. Although he may have embellished the importance of education. There is no doubt that becoming literate played a vital role in Douglass’s life and eventually his circumvention from slavery.

The Story

The story behind all this started when Douglass was about seven or eight years old. He was transferred from a plantation in Talbot County to Baltimore. When he was at the new home Douglass, a black slave, saw something unique in his new mistress, a smile directed to him. The woman was empathetic to the young slave and began to teach him how to read. However, eventually the husband of the mistress found out and forbade her to teach him. For it was against the law to teach a slave to read. This was because a literate slave would be better able to understand their bondage. Encouraging them to make a stand for their own freedom. And this is why Douglass for the rest of his life never gave up on his search to find freedom.

My Own Anticipation

The story of this central event in Douglass’s life caused me to wonder, “Has any event in my life had the same impact as learning to read did in Douglass’s?” My answer would be the obvious fact to me of my confession of my depravity, and my faith and hope in the one true Savior. Aside from this, no event has really changed my life. However, I do know that the event of my marriage, or of my fatherhood, will make a huge impact on my my life. But, because these events have not taken place, I only pray and hope that these things do come to pass.

Literatures Importance

Literature can make a profound impact on the lives of any one person. It of course is not limited to just this fact, but that of many others. Literature has the power to change the world, for good or bad. The old saying is very applicable here, “The pen is mightier then the sword.” This literally means that those who possess the power of writing, have the potential to saturate those who come in contact with their works. Likewise, the person who has the power to comprehend literature, has the ability to lead others in the teachings. Most people might take the advantage of reading for granted. But the harsh truth is, that if most people could not read, then those who could would be in total control. So lets not take this advantage for our own personal interests. And instead, use it to make this world a better place.